Editorial

by Ernest O'Neill

One of the basic principles of democracy is respect for the sovereignty
of individual states and their right to choose their own form of government and
their leaders. This basic principle seems to have been rejected by the
Superpower that has always been regarded as the "gentle giant" and protector of
democratic ideals; this birthright has been sold for "a mess of pottage" - the
indefensible and provocative doctrine of pre-emptive war. It will take many
months of bitter experience in Iraq and copy-cat unjust wars before apologies
can claw back the original restraint and respect of the democratic superpowers.

Restraint and the patient wielding of influence are the weapons of
wisdom. So while one cannot destroy every terrorist mosquito in the world, one
can create an anti-missile mosquito net. And while one cannot create an
atmosphere of fear that any state may be invaded because it is regarded as a
threat, one can persistently and diplomatically encourage citizens in their
desire for democracy and justice.

Roosevelt made the famous statement that "the only thing we have to
fear is fear itself" _ these present days cry out for the faith and commitment
that enabled Europeans to live through continual bombings and "carry on life as
usual". America breathes that kind of confident courage; it's far past time for
the nation to stand up in its true colors and build an economy that will shame
terrorism and create a just Palestinian state that will remove its root of
bitterness.